Phase I of the renovations to Vernon F. Galliano Cafeteria began last week with hopes to complete the entire process by next summer.Brenda Haskins, director of auxiliary services, said phase I, which is slated to take until the middle of October, will consist of completely removing the ceiling, which contains asbestos. This phase will consist of two parts. During the first part, construction will take place on half of the cafeteria, and seating will be placed on the other half. During the second part, construction and seating areas will be switched.

“The first of the contractors are already here and have begun putting up walls for the ceiling removal,” Haskins said. “We will do our best to get through this and are excited this is finally happening.”

During the first half, students will not be able to enter the cafeteria through the main entrance. All students, with the exception of those utilizing wheelchairs or scooters, will enter through the side door. The first part of the ceiling removal will take place on a larger section of the building. In the down-sized dining area, 290 of the approximately 450 chairs usually in the cafeteria will be set up.

Haskins said display-cooking is the only menu service that will be discontinued, and the cafeteria hours will not change. Sodexho staff will also be available at peak hours to assist students in finding seats.

Sodexho has also implemented other options for students who may find the cafeteria crowded. Until Nov. 1, students will be able to go to other campus eateries and substitute a meal in the cafeteria for a pre-set menu at the other venue. Each Sodexho cash operations venue, except Chick-fil-A, has choices for the meal plan exchange. For example, instead of lunch in the cafeteria, a student can get a mini, 7-inch, cheese pizza and 20 oz. fountain drink from Godfather’s Pizza or a southern-fried chicken wrap and 20 oz. soda at Caf a la Cart in Powell/White Hall.

“We understand that students might not like the crowded setting in the cafeteria at peak hours,” Haskins said. “This gives them other options and may help them go to places they would not necessarily go, like Subconnection at La Maison du Bayou.”

Sodexho will still offer its “Express Meals” program, which allows students to get a to-go plate from the cafeteria.

A portable air-conditioning system will also be brought into the cafeteria since the air-conditioning on the largest part of the building will be shut down.

“We can be crowded, but I definitely don’t want us hot,” Haskins said.

Haskins said she does not know how long each part of phase I will take but hopes the changeover between the two parts can take place during a weekend. She said the cafeteria does not expect any interruption of services during the process.

Phase II will consist of finalizing and bidding the renovation design plans. Haskins said after Oct. 16, construction will be quiet for the rest of the fall. Nicholls will work with Blitch Knevel Architects of New Orleans to design the building and to oversee the construction.

Phase III, which consists of the actual renovation, is scheduled to begin in January. Haskins said students will be kept informed of developments from the auxiliary services Web site (www.nicholls.edu/auxiliary).

Rough design sketches currently include gazebos and more places to lounge in front of the cafeteria. Also included are display-cooking stations and modern booths.